One of the most interesting and tallest landmarks in Astoria, Oregon, is the Astoria Column. It’s a must-see attraction in the city, and if you have plans to visit northern Oregon, it might help to educate yourself about the Astoria Column before you see it firsthand.
The Astoria Column isn’t the only must-see attraction in northern Oregon. Astoria is filled with attractions near and right downtown, where you can stay at the Astoria Riverwalk Inn. This is the perfect place to stay as it is right in the heart of the city, making getting to the area’s hottest spots a breeze.
What Is The Astoria Column?
The Astoria Column is a concrete and steel tower in Astoria, Oregon. The tower is 125 feet tall and stands at the summit of Coxcomb Hill, which is 600 feet above sea level. A spiral staircase takes guests up to an observation deck at the top. The staircase consists of 164 steps. An identifiable feature of the column is the large murals that cover most of the structure.
Where Is The Astoria Column?
1 Coxcomb Drive, Astoria, OR 97103
When Was the Astoria Column Constructed?
The Astoria Column was built in 1926, almost 100 years ago as of this writing. At the time, it was intended to be an electrified tower that would rival the Eiffel Tower in Paris. In 1974, it was listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The murals that cover most of the columns were refurbished in 1995. The structure is meant to resemble the Trajan Column in Rome.
What Do The Murals Depict?
There are 32 murals on the Astoria Column. The original artist is Attilio Pusterla, an Italian immigrant with an incredible talent for engraving. It is stated on the Friends of the Astoria Column website that “Pusterla was a perfectionist and would destroy the previous day’s work if he found it didn’t meet his satisfaction when viewing it from the ground.”
The murals depict 14 significant events that cover the origins of the state of Oregon, as well as 18 murals that illustrate moments in history that define the Astoria area, such as the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The column is also illuminated at night with a stunning display of colors, allowing you to see the murals from a distance.
Easily Find The Astoria Column From Downtown
When you stay at the Astoria Riverwalk Inn, everything in the area is easy to find because you will be at the heart of it all. Expect to find 114 rooms with decks offering stunning views of the Columbia River, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of Astoria’s natural surroundings and rich history.
Guests can also enjoy in-room coffee and tea, free high-speed wireless internet, and complimentary bicycles during the biking season. Check availability to book your Astoria, Oregon, getaway (or call us directly at 503-325-2013).